This is written by Breweries in PA contributor Mike Urie (Follow him at mikeurie712 on Instagram. Originally written May of 2018, updated July 2021)
On our way to the mountains for a relaxing Memorial Day weekend, my wife and I decided to stop at a brewery in the Northeastern part of the State Commonwealth. We mostly explore the Southeastern PA brew scene with our now 8-month old, but when in Rome. A quick search on the Breweries in PA map brought us to Berwick Brewing Company.
Located on top of a hill from the Susquehanna River and just a few minutes walk from downtown Berwick, PA. The brewery, owned by Tom Clark, is a large brick building that was once Vaughn’s Bakery. Exposed brick, creaky wooden floors, and old beer bottles provided a blue-collar working atmosphere combined with a warehouse vibe.
Greeting you, as you enter, is the main bar. Numerous beer options are at the ready. A heavy presence of lagers and ales are on the beer menu as well as others. Pizza is the popular choice among the other options they provide. Growlers and Crowlers are available to go.
Come hungry, because the menu at Berwick is nothing short of overwhelming. (Photos courtesy Berwick Brewing on Facebook)
If you are looking for an alternative to beer, the brewery serves wine from Shade Mountain Winery, which is about an hour’s drive from Berwick. They also serve Big Ben’s soda from Catawissa Bottling Company, located about 30 minutes downriver.
But if you are there for the beer, you will have plenty of options.
Since it was a beautiful day, we sat out back and enjoyed the Bier Garten. To get to the outside area, you walk through a large room with plenty of seating and a stage for entertainment. With shade and a cool breeze, the outdoor area is a great place to enjoy a game of cornhole or a live band on the stage.
My first beer was the Berwick IPA. A good, traditional balance of floral hops and a more than normal malt taste. I dare say pushing the session IPA more than your normal IPA. I decided to end my trip with a flight, the bartender gave me a few recommendations. My challenge to you, if you choose to accept, walk from the front bar to the back tables with one hand (please be careful and don’t drop it!!!). Needless to say, my forearm was burning.
If you’re exploring NE Pennsylvania, stop into Berwick Brewing Company at their location on Front Street and enjoy a few beers near the river. Another trip might be in my future for their Oktoberfest!
See more of their brewery and beers by following them on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
